The C.W. Avery Family YMCA is celebrating its 15th Anniversary on Wallin Drive in 2021! To commemorate this milestone, we are sharing the stories of our fantastic YMCA members each month.
Today, we are shining the spotlight on Brad and Judy Johnstone. Brad and Judy have been members of the C.W. Avery Family YMCA since we opened in 2006, and we are so excited to have them share some of their favorite memories.
Q: Why did you join the Y and what has kept you connected as members over the last 15 years?
Judy: The Y had so much to offer, but I was really interested in the group fitness classes. I did water aerobics and low impact aerobics. After we joined, I got more familiar with the other things that were happening at the Y and the support the Y was giving to families. That was all new to me. As a former teacher, I know the kind of support kids need and whether it’s helping them get their homework done after school, or getting some exercise, I really was impressed with the support for kids and families. That’s also why we choose to support the Y as donors.
Brad: From my perspective, what’s been the best for me is the personal training. I haven’t ever been good at saying ‘I’m going to go to the Y at 9 o’clock’ unless I’ve got an appointment. I’ve worked with three personal trainers, including (Executive Director) Lisa Behounek when she was in fitness, and the experiences have just been excellent. Everyone has just been fantastic.
Q: What are some of your favorite YMCA memories or experiences?
Judy: When I first started coming to the Y, I was taking care of our granddaughter three days a week. I was just thinking about it the other day and I still have her first Y card. I would exercise and she would go into the childcare facility.
Brad: Our grandchildren have had fun in the baseball, basketball, and soccer programs and we like to come watch games.
Q: What should someone know about the Y if they are interested in becoming a member?
Brad: I encourage people to join because this is not just a gym, it’s a good charity.
Judy: The Y makes it easy for people to stay active, but the focus isn’t just about someone’s health, it’s about supporting the community. Everybody is welcome and we’re going to treat you with respect.
We would like to thank Brad and Judy for their incredible support over the last 15 years. At the Y, we love serving our community and can’t wait to see what the next 15 years bring!
